Church Life

A Pilgrim’s Experience of History and Culture

The GC43 youth pilgrims experience the rich history and culture of Canada during their visit to Montreal and Ottawa Conference.

Pilgrimage to Maritime Conference 

Throughout our time in the Maritime Conference we had many insightful talks that were helpful leading into our time at General Council 43. 

Sharing the Pilgrim Spirit

We started this wonderful journey together separately, working in our home Conferences to understand the work our Conference does. When that week was over we traveled to Newfoundland to covenant  and to learn from the wisdom of the place.

Planting Seeds of Connection: Clusters and Networks

With the remits likely moving us toward a three-council model in The United Church of Canada, Living Waters Presbytery (Toronto Conference) wanted to ensure that local communities of faith will receive the… Read more

Let Our True Colours Shine

The old, grey stone steps of my local United Church in Toronto were recently transformed. They are now awash in a cheerful rainbow of hues, almost daring people who bustle by on the busy Toronto street not to stop and smile. I’m sure more than a few pedestrians have wondered, “What’s going… Read more

Mission before Ministry?

Ever so often in the church I hear statements and experience attitudes that cause me concern. One such incident occurred recently in response to the outcome of Remit 6 (One Order of Ministry.) My concern is not about the apparent merits or demerits of Remit 6, or about who voted either for or… Read more

What Makes Us Protestant: What about Mary?

For the first thousand years of Christianity, and particularly since the Council of Ephesus in 431, Mary has held a special place in Christian faith. But for just as long, there has been debate about how “special” that place ought to be.

10 Ways to Celebrate Clergy Appreciation Month

Did you know that October is Clergy Appreciation Month? It was introduced in the United States in the 1990s but throughout church history people have taken time to thank their leaders.

“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double… Read more

What Makes Us Protestant: Teachings That Matter

Where is the Conversation about Mission?

At the end of September 2017 the commissioners of the 42nd General Council will gather electronically for the reconvening of General Council. This purpose of reconvening the General Council will be to further the work began by the… Read more